Interferometric Reflectance Imaging Sensor (IRIS)

Interferometric Reflectance Imaging Sensors are label-free optical biosensing platforms that detect biomolecular interactions through changes in optical interference patterns. IRIS technology relies on thin-film interference created when light reflects from layered surfaces, such as silicon substrates coated with dielectric films. When biomolecules bind to the sensor surface, they alter the optical path length, producing measurable reflectance changes. This enables highly sensitive, real-time detection without fluorescent or radioactive labels. IRIS sensors are widely used in biomedical diagnostics, proteomics, and DNA analysis. Physics principles governing wave interference, coherence, and surface optics form the foundation of IRIS. These sensors offer high multiplexing capability, allowing simultaneous detection of multiple analytes. Their robustness and quantitative accuracy make them suitable for clinical and environmental applications. IRIS technology exemplifies how optical physics can be translated into powerful bioanalytical tools.